Written by Mariem Eissa
Smooshi, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi’s resident Pacific walrus, has given birth to a healthy calf in what marks a genuine first for zoological facilities across the Middle East
Abu Dhabi, UAE, 23 June 2026: Something genuinely special just happened at SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Smooshi, one of the park’s beloved Pacific walruses, has given birth to a healthy calf, the first walrus ever to be born in a zoological facility anywhere in the region. Both mum and calf are doing well, and by all accounts, the bond between them has been immediate and beautiful to watch.
The birth was overseen by SeaWorld Abu Dhabi’s veterinary and animal care team, who have been with Smooshi every step of the way through her pregnancy and delivery. The fact that everything went smoothly is a reflection of how seriously this team takes its work, and of the environment they have built for these animals to thrive in.
Home Is Where the Ice Is
Right now, the calf is right where it needs to be, at Smooshi’s side, inside the Arctic Realm’s walrus habitat. The space has been designed to replicate the conditions of an Arctic environment: cold temperatures, natural light cycles, and the kind of stimulating, calm surroundings that matter most in those early weeks of life.
For now, the calf will stay close to its mother for protection, comfort and everything it needs to grow. Watching the two of them navigate this early chapter together, in a habitat that was built with exactly this kind of moment in mind, is the kind of thing that reminds you why facilities like this exist.
Carlos Rodriguez, General Manager at SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, said:
“This is an incredibly proud moment for all of us at SeaWorld Abu Dhabi as we welcome the region’s first walrus calf. Our dedicated veterinary and animal care teams worked tirelessly to provide world-class, specialised care for Smooshi throughout her gestation and delivery. Seeing them bond so naturally is the ultimate reward. Like all our walruses, the calf will be an invaluable ambassador, connecting millions of guests with the vital importance of Arctic conservation.”
More Than a Milestone
Beyond the joy of a new arrival, this birth carries real weight. Walruses are facing increasing pressure in the wild, from shrinking sea ice to the broader effects of climate change on Arctic ecosystems. Every time a park like SeaWorld Abu Dhabi can bring guests face to face with an animal like Smooshi or her calf, it creates a connection that goes far beyond a day out.
SeaWorld Abu Dhabi holds accreditations from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA), and is the first facility in the region to be certified by Global Humane. These are not just badges on a wall. They reflect a standard of animal care that makes moments like this possible.
Every ticket sold at the park also supports the Yas SeaWorld Research and Rescue Centre, the largest dedicated marine research, rescue and rehabilitation centre in the region. So in a very real sense, every visitor to see Smooshi and her calf is contributing to something bigger than the visit itself.
If you want to catch a glimpse of Smooshi and her new calf, tickets are available now at www.seaworldabudhabi.com. Do not wait too long. These early weeks are fleeting, even for a walrus.
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About SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, operated by Miral Experiences, is the world’s largest indoor marine life theme park. Built around a ‘One Ocean’ story that explores the deep connection between life on earth and our seas, the park delivers immersive, family-friendly experiences across eight themed realms, from up-close animal encounters and thrilling rides to dining and entertainment.
The park is the first in the region to be certified by Global Humane and holds AZA accreditation, with every animal habitat custom-designed using a welfare-first approach. It is also home to the Yas SeaWorld Research and Rescue Centre, the largest marine research, rescue and rehabilitation facility in the region, built on over 60 years of SeaWorld expertise in marine animal care.
SeaWorld Abu Dhabi was developed by Miral in partnership with United Parks and Resorts. It is the first new SeaWorld park in 30 years and the first outside the United States.
For more information, visit www.seaworldyasisland.com.
Media Enquiries
Farah Sarieddine
Head of PR, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi
fsarieddine@miral.ae
+971 56 473 8327
